20 Japanese Garden Trees You Will Love 2024

Explore the elegance of Japanese garden trees and transform your garden into a tranquil haven. Our guide offers perspectives on a variety of trees, each possessing unique beauty and cultural significance, to help you create a harmonious and lush setting. Embark on this journey of grace and tranquility with our specially selected assortment.

My Favorite Japanese Garden Trees

1. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)

Japanese Maple
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Known for its stunning autumn colors and delicate leaves. There are many varieties, each with its unique leaf shape and color.

2. Cherry Blossom (Sakura)

Cherry Blossom (Sakura)
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Iconic for their beautiful spring blossoms, these trees are central to Japanese culture and aesthetics.

3. Pine Trees (Matsu)

Pine Trees (Matsu)
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Symbolizing longevity and steadfastness, pine trees are often pruned into artistic shapes in Japanese gardens.

4. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
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This ancient tree species is revered for its unique fan-shaped leaves and vibrant yellow fall color.

5. Bamboo

Bamboo
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While technically a grass, bamboo is a vital part of many Japanese gardens, appreciated for its rapid growth and slender, elegant form.

6. Camellia (Camellia japonica)

Camellia japonica
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These evergreen shrubs or small trees are known for their beautiful, waxy flowers which bloom in winter or early spring.

7. Azalea (Rhododendron spp.)

Azalea
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Popular for their vibrant spring blooms, azaleas are often used in Japanese gardens for their variety of colors and sizes.

8. Wisteria (Wisteria floribunda)

Wisteria
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A climbing plant often trained over trellises or arbors, wisteria is famous for its cascading clusters of fragrant, purple or white flowers in spring.

9. Japanese Black Pine (Pinus thunbergii)

Japanese Black Pine
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A rugged pine species that’s often used for bonsai and is characteristic of Japanese coastal landscapes.

10. Japanese Cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)

Japanese Cedar
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Known as “Sugi” in Japan, this tree is valued for its timber and is often planted around shrines and temples.

11. Japanese Stewartia (Stewartia pseudocamellia)

Japanese Stewartia
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Known for its camellia-like flowers in the summer and striking bark, which peels away to reveal a mottled pattern of colors.

12. Japanese White Pine (Pinus parviflora)

Japanese White Pine
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Appreciated for its elegant form and fine needle foliage, it’s a popular choice for bonsai and garden specimens.

13. Japanese Zelkova (Zelkova serrata)

Japanese Zelkova
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Recognized for its graceful shape, smooth bark, and vibrant fall colors, it’s often used as a street or lawn tree in Japanese-style landscapes.

14. Katsura Tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum)

Cercidiphyllum japonicum
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Valued for its heart-shaped leaves and beautiful fall color, which ranges from yellow to apricot; the leaves also emit a pleasant fragrance as they fall.

15. Japanese Witch Hazel (Hamamelis japonica)

Japanese Witch Hazel
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Known for its fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring, adding color to the garden when little else is in bloom.

16. Japanese Plum (Prunus mume)

Japanese Plum
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Famous for its early spring blossoms and fragrant flowers, it comes in various colors, including white, pink, and red.

17. Japanese Hornbeam (Carpinus japonica)

Japanese Hornbeam
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A small tree with attractive foliage and a pleasing shape, often used for bonsai or as a garden specimen.

18. Japanese Beech (Fagus crenata)

Japanese Beech
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Noted for its smooth, grey bark and beautiful foliage, which turns golden yellow in autumn.

19. Mountain Maple (Acer shirasawanum)

Acer shirasawanum
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Similar to the Japanese maple, it features unique leaf shapes and spectacular fall colors, making it a cherished addition to any garden.

20. Japanese Snowbell (Styrax japonicus)

Styrax japonicus
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Celebrated for its elegant, drooping branches and bell-shaped, fragrant white flowers that appear in late spring.

FAQ

What are the best Japanese garden trees for small spaces?

If you have limited space, consider smaller or dwarf varieties like the Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum), which comes in many compact forms. The Japanese Snowbell (Styrax japonicus) and Dwarf Pine varieties are also excellent choices for smaller gardens.

How do I care for a Japanese Maple tree in my garden?

Japanese Maples prefer well-drained soil and partial shade to protect their delicate leaves from scorching. Regular watering, especially in dry periods, is essential. They also benefit from occasional pruning to maintain shape and health.

Can Japanese garden trees thrive in harsh climates?

Some Japanese garden trees are more tolerant of harsh conditions than others. For example, the Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) and Japanese Black Pine (Pinus thunbergii) are quite resilient and can adapt to various climates. However, always check the specific needs of each species and consult local gardening experts for the best advice.

When is the best time to plant Japanese garden trees?

The ideal planting time varies depending on the tree species and your local climate. Generally, early spring or autumn is the best time to plant, as the weather is milder and allows the roots to establish before extreme temperatures.

How can I create a balanced look with different Japanese garden trees?

Achieving balance involves considering the size, shape, and color of the trees. Mix evergreens like pines or cedars with deciduous trees like maples or cherry blossoms for year-round interest. Consider the mature size of each tree and plant them in a way that allows each to be appreciated individually while contributing to the overall harmony of the garden.


What are your favorite Japanese garden trees? Do you have any in your garden? Leave a comment and tell us about your garden ideas.

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Henrik

Henrik is the author / blogger of PrettyPlantscape. His passion for gardening was rekindled when he moved in the countryside. Even as a child, he was allowed / required to help out in the garden on a regular basis.
Through his current experience in online marketing and love of writing, this blog was born.

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